As the countdown to Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20, 2025, begins, several defendants from the January 6 Capitol riot are hoping for a special pass to attend. These individuals are citing Trump’s promises of potential pardons for those involved in the riot. Trump has long called the day “a day of love” and vowed to consider clemency for those charged or convicted.
Some defendants have even asked for delays in their trials or travel permissions to Washington, D.C., to be part of the historic event.
William Pope from Kansas, who’s facing charges for civil disorder after carrying an American flag inside the Capitol, is representing himself in court and recently requested permission to attend the inauguration. He’s also asked for more time to delay his trial, arguing that Trump’s pardons could make the whole thing unnecessary.
Eric Peterson, a Missouri resident who pled guilty to a misdemeanor for unlawfully entering the Capitol, was the first to get judicial approval. His nonviolent actions and Trump’s clemency promises played a key role in this decision.
On the flip side, Russell Taylor, a California man who helped organize efforts to disrupt Congress’s certification, faces opposition from the DOJ. He wants to attend after receiving an invite from former Utah congressman Chris Stewart.
With these cases and more in play, it’s clear: Trump’s inauguration promises to be a day full of legal debates as these defendants hope for a second chance.
